Totem Poles - The Gift

It is impossible to miss these two totem poles while walking along the boardwalk to East Beach. They are known as Gyaana and Ka'kan. These totem poles were created in celebration of the 125th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

The Haidia Pole, Gyaana, was created by native artist Robert Davidson. This pole features the 'Watchman', a character that represents the keeper of a village and is designed to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The second pole, known as a Salish House Pole or Ka'kan was designed by Susan Point and carved by Davidson. The pole, features a large guardian figure which represents the role of the RCMP. An eagle is perched on the guardian figure and symbolizes its power, peace and friendship combining with man. Both poles were raised in a traditional ceremony on April 25, 1999.